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“The League of Loyal Retainers” is one of the most celebrated kabuki plays of all times. The scene depicted is situated on Hachiman Temple, with Edo Bay in the background, and shows the beginning of the plot. In the center we see Takomi no Kami drawing his sword to Kira Kotsuké no Suké. This was the action that was to cause the death of Takomi. In the left we see Kawoyo, Takomi's wife, that was offended by Kira, thus provoking the fateful reaction of his husband. The play goes on to tell how a group of loyal retainers of Takomi no Kami will plot to avenge his death, at the cost of their own lifes. |
(Click image to enlarge)
|
Id |
EUA005 |
Artist |
Hiroshige
II Utagawa, aka Risshô Shigenobu or Suzuki Hiroshige (1829-1869) |
Series |
“Chushingura” - The League of Loyal Retainers or The 47 Ronin |
Title |
“Kabuto aratame” - Act I: The examination of the elms |
|
Signature |
Shigenobu ga |
Seal |
|
Publisher |
Fujikei |
Date |
1855 |
Format |
Oban yoko-e |
Dimensions |
37,3
x 25,4 cm |
Impression |
Good |
Colors |
Faded |
|
Preservation |
Fair |
|
Condition |
Margins soiled (residue of glue in verso). Print heavily soiled and with heavy wear. |